Pelican Press

WA Election 2025: Albany’s Labor incumbent could keep seat with primary votes giving Rebecca Stephens a lead WA Election 2025: Albany’s Labor incumbent could keep seat with primary votes giving Rebecca Stephens a lead Albany incumbent Rebecca Stephens could be in with a chance to hold on to her seat as early results on first preferences put her ahead in a three-way contest with her Liberals and Nationals opponents. At 8.10pm on Saturday, with 8 per cent of the vote counted, Ms Stephens had 28 per cent of first-preference votes, putting her 6 percentage points ahead of Nationals candidate Scott Leary and Liberal candidate Thomas Brough who are both sitting at 22 per cent of the primary votes. Ms Stephens’ slight lead is a huge 23-point swing down from the 51 per cent of first preferences that she won in the 2021 election. Flanked by her family, Ms Stephens entered her count party at the Hilton Garden Inn Albany to a loud round of applause on Saturday night. Ms Stephens said she was “looking forward” to the election results, saying her campaign has “done everything we can”. “So far, it’s all too early to make predictions,” she said. “We ran a fantastic campaign, couldn’t have put more effort in. “We’ve had the support of the community and we’ve been out door-knocking and had conversations.” Labor has narrowly held the seat for more than two decades with Ms Stephens becoming the first female representative for the region in 2021 with 64 per cent of the two-candidate preferred vote and 51 per cent of first preference votes. The seat, held by the Government on an 11 per cent margin, has been in Labor hands since 2001, with former MP Peter Watson winning five terms there. A redraw of Albany’s electoral boundaries in 2023, however, cut some of Labor’s buffer by adding an extra 3840 electors from the Shire of Plantagenet, where support for the Nationals is strong. Insiders fear Labor’s chances have been further harmed the Federal ban on live sheep exports, making it harder for former councillor Ms Stephens to seek another run. Half a dozen ministers were deployed to shore up Labor’s vote with Premier Roger Cook making four visits himself and the party making several major pledges, including $60 million to build a modular ward at Albany Health Campus and $50 million to upgrade nearly 12km of South Coast Highway. Camera IconMs Stephens chats to supporters outside Albany Town Hall on Saturday. Credit: Laurie Benson Speaking to the Advertiser outside the Albany Town Hall on Saturday, Ms Stephens said health had been the biggest issue for voters, downplaying the impact of Federal Labor’s ban on live sheep exports. “We’ve been out campaigning and door-knocking for the past six months, pretty solidly, so definitely health was one of the issues that did come up, which is why we really fought hard for the $60 million for the Albany Health campus for 30 extra beds and 60 new jobs,” she said. “(The live sheep export ban) definitely was not on the doors as much as I thought it would be.” That was not the case for Mr Leary, however, with the issue “coming up time and time again”. “As much as it’s a Federal issue, we know that domestically, it’s going to hurt us greater than anywhere else in Australia,” he said. The potential dark horse in this campaign, Mr Leary was the presumptive preselection winner for the Liberals when a shock upset saw Mr Brough take the spot instead. Camera IconMr Leary at home on election night. Credit: Laurie Benson The well-respected businessman has offered a moderate alternative for conservatives as the Liberals face their own challenges, with candidate Thomas Brough making headlines for controversial comments about the LGBTQIA+ community, abortion and gun control. While discussing the city’s Pride festival at an Albany council meeting last year, the city councillor incorrectly stated that the LGBTQIA+ umbrella encompassed “minor-attracted persons” — a euphemism for paedophiles. In February, it was revealed that the emergency doctor had been referred to a medical tribunal over a professional misconduct complaint. Also in February, the ABC reported that the candidate told a community forum in Mt Barker that people looking to pass mental and physical health checks to secure a gun licence would be helped by a “little posse” of “shooters who are doctors”, which he later walked back in a statement, saying he would comply with his legal obligations as a medical professional. And at his first and only press conference with Liberal leader Libby Mettam eight days out from the election, Dr Brough told reporters WA should review its abortion laws, adding “babies born alive should not be left to die” as Ms Mettam stood by in silence with the Liberal leader later issuing a one-line statement: “Reviewing WA’s abortion laws is not part of the WA Liberals’ plan.” His comments derailed a press conference that was supposed to be about an election commitment to build a business case to expand the hospital. Dr Brough declined to speak to media, but in a video posted online on Friday he thanked his supporters for their “incredible” energy. “This is what makes our electorate special,” he said. “This is what makes me proud to call this place home. “And you know what? This is what conservative values really looks like in action.” Camera IconThomas Brough at Keep The Sheep Stadium with his wife Emily on election night. Credit: Laurie Benson Source link #Election #Albanys #Labor #incumbent #seat #primary #votes #giving #Rebecca #Stephens #lead Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

****** Ops 6 May Have Been Shelved Indefinitely Due to America’s ‘Political Climate’ ****** Ops 6 May Have Been Shelved Indefinitely Due to America’s ‘Political Climate’ Battlefield and Call of Duty forever had a rivalry between them. Their rivalry has been a sort of motivation for both the games’ developers to pump out something new and exciting every year. Although Battlefield never surpassed Call of Duty, that doesn’t mean EA did not even try. Battlefield Hardline was more about city-wide scenarios of crime | Image Credits: Electronic Arts There was one sequel that EA planned on releasing in response to Activision’s Call of Duty: ****** Ops 6, but that sequel was eventually shelved due to America’s prevailing political conditions. Of course, the game we are talking about is Battlefield Hardline 2. Let’s delve deeper into why the game was canceled. Battlefield Hardline 2 canceled because of a 2014 shooting The game features a police versus robbers kind of scenario | Image Credits: Electronic Arts Battlefield Hardline is one of the spin-off installments in the BF series. The game developed by Visceral Games was released back in March of 2015 and became the best-selling video game title in the ***. While the other games in the BF franchise are about war and the military, Hardline focuses more on city-wide scale operations like bank heists and hostage rescue situations. The game also features the Levolution mechanic from BF 4, where certain events will have specific effects on the environment, and it is different for each round. The title also introduced a fresh multiplayer experience, yet it still did not receive a sequel even though it was pitched to EA. Although Battlefield Hardline’s reception was not that great after it was released, through the years, the game gained a sort of cult audience who were desperate for a new sequel of the game. In a 2024 interview with VideoGamer and the title’s multiplayer design lead, Thaddeus Sasser, he shed light on why the political climate of America affected the game’s release. I think, you know, maybe, maybe, there is a world where that game could exist but, at the time, the political climate, if you remember there’s Ferguson [shooting] and all that other bad stuff going on. It was just… too much. There was no way EA was going to do that, The Ferguson shooting is related to an incident from 2014, where an 18-year-old Michael Brown was shot and killed by a police officer in Ferguson, Missouri. This ensured that the sequel for the game would not get released. In the interview, Sasser also commented on how he would like to get rid of the Battlefield name off of the front. Fans of the game were hoping for a sequel to the title The Ferguson Shooting from 2014 made sure the title does not receive a sequel | Image Credits: Electronic Arts The cancellation of Battlefield Hardline 2 shows just how real-world incidents and events can affect and shape the trajectory of a video game. Although EA has never been shy of showing military conflict in their series, this police and thugs inspired title was deemed too controversial for a sequel, and hence, we are devoid of a sequel to EA’s cops and robbers installment. While Battlefield Hardline had a lukewarm reception, players had grown attached to the game and proved that a game about city-wide crime and police affairs can also find its own dedicated audience. However, now with Visceral Games being defunct and EA shifting back to its military warfare titles, it is highly unlikely that Hardline will get a sequel that some fans are still hoping for. Source link #****** #Ops #Shelved #Indefinitely #Due #Americas #Political #Climate Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

South Korea’s President Yoon free, trials continue after court quashes detention South Korea’s President Yoon free, trials continue after court quashes detention Yoon Suk Yeol attends a hearing for his impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court in Seoul, South Korea, on Jan. 23, 2025. Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol walked out of a detention center in Seoul on Saturday after prosecutors decided not to appeal a court decision to cancel the impeached leader’s arrest warrant on insurrection charges. Yoon, 64, remains suspended from his duties, and his criminal and impeachment trials continue over his short-lived imposition of martial law on December 3. The Seoul Central District Court canceled Yoon’s arrest warrant on Friday, citing the timing of his indictment and “questions about the legality” of the investigation process. “I would like to thank the Central District Court for their courage and determination in correcting the illegality,” Yoon said in a statement. As he left the facility, a relaxed and smiling Yoon, in a dark suit with no necktie and his hair showing some grey, stepped out of his car, waved, raised his fist and bowed to cheering supporters waving South Korean and U.S. flags. His lawyers said the court decision “confirmed that the president’s detainment was problematic in both procedural and substantive aspects,” calling the ruling the “beginning of a journey to restore rule of law”. Prosecutors could not immediately be reached for comment. The main opposition Democratic Party criticized the prosecutors’ decision for “throwing the country and people into crisis” and urged the Constitutional Court to remove Yoon from office as soon as possible. In his impeachment trial, the Constitutional Court is expected to decide in the coming days whether to reinstate or remove Yoon. On Saturday, some 55,000 Yoon supporters rallied in Seoul’s main districts, while 32,500 people demonstrated against him near the Constitutional Court, Yonhap news agency reported, citing unofficial police estimates. The public, however, remains largely anti-Yoon, with 60% of respondents saying he should be removed from office and 35% opposing removal, according to a Gallup Korea poll on Friday. Before the prosecutors’ decision, hundreds of Yoon supporters also protested in front of the Supreme Prosecutors’ Office. Yoon, the first South Korean president to be arrested while in office, has been in custody since Jan. 15. Source link #South #Koreas #President #Yoon #free #trials #continue #court #quashes #detention Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Top cop given his marching orders Top cop given his marching orders Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro has ousted the NT’s most senior police officer after a jobs for mates scandal. Source link #Top #cop #marching #orders Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

iPhone 17 Air Dimensions Leaked; Could Feature Slim Bezels Like the iPhone 16 Pro Max iPhone 17 Air Dimensions Leaked; Could Feature Slim Bezels Like the iPhone 16 Pro Max iPhone 17 Air might be Apple’s slimmest smartphone in several years, and details of the purported handset have previously surfaced online. A tipster has revealed the dimensions of the iPhone 17 Air, claiming that it will be 5.5mm thick, while its length and width could match the iPhone 17 Pro Max. If this claim is accurate, Apple’s slimmer handset could be about 0.34mm thinner than the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, which is expected to debut next month. iPhone 17 Air Dimensions (Expected) According to a post by X (formerly Twitter) user Ice Universe (@UniverseIce) states that the iPhone 17 Air will arrive with the same length, width, and screen size as the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The tipster claims that the dimensions of both these handsets (except thickness) will match the iPhone 16 Pro Max. This means the iPhone 17 Air and iPhone 17 Pro could both measure 163mm in height and 77.6mm is width. The tipster’s claim indicates that the iPhone 17 Air will sport a 6.9-inch LTPO AMOLED display, 0.2mm larger than the handset it is expected to replace later this year — the iPhone 16 Plus. The leaker says that the iPhone 17 Air and iPhone 17 Pro Max will sport the same slim display bezels as the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Unlike Apple’s flagship models, the upcoming iPhone 17 Air will be 5.5mm thick, according to Ice Universe. This is considerably slimmer than the iPhone 17 Pro Max, which is said to be 8.7mm thick. However, the flagship model is expected to be equipped with three rear cameras, while the slim chassis of the iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature only one rear camera. A recent report suggested that the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max might all feature an aluminium frame. Apple switched from stainless steel to titanium on its Pro models with the iPhone 15 Pro, while its standard models have been equipped with aluminium frames for a few years. On the other hand, the iPhone 17 Air will reportedly use a titanium frame, as per the report. Both the iPhone 17 Air and Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge are expected to arrive with smaller batteries than the company’s standard models, according to a report. In order to keep the iPhone 17 Air as thin as possible, the company is also reportedly set to remove the physical SIM slot on the smartphone. More details on the handset are expected to emerge in the coming months, ahead of its anticipated debut later this year. Source link #iPhone #Air #Dimensions #Leaked #Feature #Slim #Bezels #iPhone #Pro #Max Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

In the future, your Delta plane could look like this In the future, your Delta plane could look like this Editor’s note: Sign up for Unlocking the World, CNN Travel’s weekly newsletter. Get news about destinations, plus the latest in aviation, food and drink, and where to stay. In travel news this week, Pakistan’s new airport with no planes or passengers, the triangular aircraft that could transform the way we fly, plus a legendary New Jersey roller coaster goes on a last dramatic adventure. The future of air travel Tired of flying in the same old pointy planes? Hold tight for the innovative “blended wing” airplane from JetZero, a California company that has just announced a partnership with Delta Air Lines to help develop its demonstrator aircraft. The makers of the quirky nacho-shaped plane say it will be up to 50% more fuel-efficient than today’s commercial aircraft and could carry more than 250 passengers — about the same as a modern widebody plane. The aircraft is suitable for both domestic and international flight routes and JetZero plans for it to be in commercial operation by 2030. JetZero’s demonstrator aircraft is slated to take to the air by 2027, but while you’re waiting, you can read more about this unusual style of airframe in our JetZero story from last year. In other aviation innovation news, Chaise Longue’s controversial double-level airplane seat design has sparked furious debate whenever CNN Travel has covered it, but aerospace giant Airbus thinks there might be something in it. The two companies have partnered to explore “some early-stage concepts.” And in feats of speed, the demonstrator aircraft for America’s first civil supersonic jet broke the sound barrier for the first time earlier this year. Now an incredible photo from NASA, using specialized Schlieren imaging to show air flow, has captured the shock waves as *****’s XB-1 aircraft exceeded Mach 1, the speed of sound. ***** hopes to be flying passengers by 2029. For an airliner already in operation which is set to change the air map of the world, look no further than the Airbus A321XLR. The single-aisle, long-range plane with improved fuel efficiency could open a flood of new transatlantic flights. Airport openings and expansions Pakistan’s shiny new $240 million Balochistan airport has got everything an aviation hub needs — other than passengers or planes. The 400,000 passenger-capacity airport isn’t a big need for Gwadar, a coastal city with a population of 90,000 that lacks clean water and isn’t connected to the national grid. Here’s how this situation came about. The Gwadar airport is financed by China and that’s not the only big airport in which the Asian superpower is investing. It’s building the world’s largest artificial island airport off the country’s northeastern coast. Here’s what you need to know about Dalian Jinzhou Bay International. Finally, Europe’s biggest airport is set to get even *******, as the *** has green-lit the building of a third runway at London Heathrow, a beleaguered project that was first announced more than 20 years ago. Travel disruptions Eurostar trains between France and England were halted Friday after a “really huge” unexploded World War II bomb was found outside Paris. The device weighs in at a whopping 500 kilograms (1,100 lbs), of which 200 kilograms (440 lbs) are explosives. A couple was arrested at Miami International earlier this month on suspicion of trying to force their way onto an American Airlines flight, pushing people in the process. The flight was headed for Cancún, Mexico. Following the string of recent aviation incidents that has been alarming travelers, a Delta Air Lines captain recently walked out of the cockpit to reassure passengers. The video moment has gone viral. Other pilots have shared their reactions with CNN on the drop in public confidence following these incidents. “Fate is screaming at us to do something,” a spokesperson for the Allied Pilots Association told CNN. Roller coaster implosion After 19 years of service at Six Flags Adventure Park in New Jersey, Kingda Ka, once the world’s tallest and fastest roller coaster, went on its final kinetic adventure. The attraction was imploded in order to make space for new rides coming in 2026. If you love theme parks but hate what high velocity does to your hair, then you’ll want to take a look at this guide to the 21 best hair tools for travel. Our partners at CNN Underscored, a product reviews and recommendations guide owned by CNN, got the lowdown from experts. In case you missed it What it’s like to travel as a woman in Saudi Arabia. Obstacles to accessing the conservative country have eased over recent years. “Australia’s Bigfoot” watched over the small town of Kilcoy for decades. Then one day, it disappeared. She traveled to Italy to save her marriage. Here’s how she ended up falling for her Italian tour guide. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Source link #future #Delta #plane Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

WA election 2025: Labor clinches victory to govern for third term WA election 2025: Labor clinches victory to govern for third term Labor will govern for a third term in Western Australia, with the Liberal Party failing to attract the swing required to threaten Roger Cook’s majority. Polls predicted a 12-13 per cent swing could put up to 11 seats in reach of the Liberal Party. With eight per cent of the vote counted Labor had held the crucial seats of South Perth, Bateman and Scarborough, falling well short of the 30 seats it needed to win government. Premier Roger Cook has been careful not to sound too confident during the campaign despite Labor’s near unbeatable position. The party won 53 of 59 seats in the WA lower house during its unprecedented landslide victory in 2021 under then-premier Mark McGowan. “Should we be endorsed by the people of Western Australia today, we won’t take anything for granted,” he told reporters after he voted in his electorate of Kwinana and posed for photos with a democracy sausage. “We’re staying humble.” The Liberals and Nationals, who have three seats each, need a swing of more than 20 per cent to form a coalition government. That is not on the cards, but the Liberals are expected to regain previously safe Perth seats in the inner city and western suburbs. Mr Cook told reporters the loss of any seat would be unacceptable. “No one likes to lose in politics,” he said as he vies to be returned as premier in his own right having replaced Mr McGowan when he stood down in 2023. “I’m just getting started. I’ve only been in this role for 18 months now. I’m super energised. “My intention is to go long. We’ve got a huge plan.” Liberal leader Libby Mettam has fought valiantly during the campaign against a confident and cashed-up Labor party. She has refused to discuss the likelihood of her party losing while battling questions about her leadership and candidates accused of poor behaviour, controversial comments and derogatory social media posts. But even if the conservatives reclaim every seat lost in 2021, Labor would still be in office with its healthy majority from 2017, when it secured 41 lower house seats. The Liberals won 13 and the Nationals five. “The important message that we’re making is that people’s vote is very powerful,” she told reporters outside a polling booth in Perth’s southern suburbs earlier in the day. “If nothing changes, if Labor is re-elected, we will see the same Labor values for the next four years.” Asked if she had already written her concession speech, Ms Mettam said: “I’m just focused on getting out and about talking to people.” “I appreciate it’s a David and Goliath battle, but the vote is in the people of Western *********** people’s hands.” Cost of living and housing are the main issues for WA voters. Health, education, regional services, state infrastructure and crime have also been targeted by the parties during the campaign. Local resident Brendan Brown was among the hundreds of people queuing to cast their ballot at the booth. “If it ain’t broke don’t fix it,” he said as he backed Labor for the win. “Things are going in the right direction … I don’t see there’s any alternatives.” Shirley Reilly said Labor had too much power in its last term and WA needed a stronger opposition to hold it to account. “We need more balance,” she said. Rusted-on Liberal supporter Rod Reynolds was thrilled to meet Ms Mettam as she handed out how-to-vote cards and greeted voters. “Libby Mettam is a lot better looking than Roger Cook,” he joked when asked why he backed her party. Source link #election #Labor #clinches #victory #govern #term Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

GTA 6 Costing $100 Could Reward Players Too, Analysts Argue – GameSpot GTA 6 Costing $100 Could Reward Players Too, Analysts Argue – GameSpot GTA 6 Costing $100 Could Reward Players Too, Analysts Argue GameSpotWhen does Grand Theft Auto VI come out? Release date info NorthJersey.comWould You Pay $100 for Grand Theft Auto VI? GizmodoGTA 6 release confirmed for fall 2025: What to expect from gameplay, price, and more MoneycontrolAnalyst thinks Take-Two will sell Grand Theft Auto 6 at an unprecedented $100 price point Video Games Chronicle Source link #GTA #Costing #Reward #Players #Analysts #Argue #GameSpot Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Senators ask DOJ to investigate whether Elon Musk is using his insider status in the Trump administration to pressure advertisers back to X Senators ask DOJ to investigate whether Elon Musk is using his insider status in the Trump administration to pressure advertisers back to X Since President Donald Trump returned to the White House and appointed Elon Musk to run a cost-cutting body, the Tesla CEO’s potential conflicts of interest have been questioned. Now, senators want the Department of Justice to look into whether X is using its owner’s influential position to pressure advertisers to come back and spend more. Elon Musk has pull. He heads the non-Cabinet cost-cutting body the Department of Government Efficiency, and appears to have a close relationship with the President. The world’s richest man owns and runs a number of companies too. X is one of them. Once upon a time, advertisers were fleeing the social media company. Internal documents reviewed by the New York Times back in 2023 revealed companies such as Airbnb, Amazon, Coca-Cola, and Microsoft had considered pausing or halted their ads on X. This was when Musk endorsed an anti-Semitic post, but some were already pulling back after his $44 billion Twitter takeover in fear of ******* content moderation. However, earlier this year, the Wall Street Journal reported that Amazon jacked up its ad spending on X—and Apple, which previously stopped all ad spending on X, is in discussions to come back. In a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi viewed by WSJ, five Democratic senators asked the Justice Department to look into whether Musk is using his insider status within the Trump administration to pressure advertisers back to X. President Donald Trump chose Bondi after his initial pick, Matt Gaetz, dropped out amid sex trafficking allegations that he denied. If Musk uses his position to hurt those who don’t do business with him, “he risks running afoul of criminal ethics laws,” Sens. Elizabeth Warren, Cory Booker, Richard Blumenthal, Adam Schiff, and Chris Van Hollen wrote, per the Journal. The senators said they’re concerned X is using Musk’s influential role to “extract revenue from advertisers,” the Journal reported. X and the department that became DOGE did not immediately respond to Fortune’s request for comment. This comes less than a month after the WSJ reported X pressured advertising company Interpublic Group to spend more on its platform in a conversation between attorneys for both parties, according to people with knowledge of the conversation. X chief executive Linda Yaccarino appeared to have made similar remarks in other conversations with Interpublic, the publication reported, citing people with knowledge of those talks. Interpublic executives reportedly interpreted the messaging from X as a threat to its pending $13 billion merger with Omnicom Group because of Musk’s ties to the Trump administration, per the Journal. Interpublic signed a new annual deal with X for potential client spending, people familiar told the outlet. Source link #Senators #DOJ #investigate #Elon #Musk #insider #status #Trump #administration #pressure #advertisers Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

‘Start planning for bird flu pandemic NOW’ expert warns amid fears highly pathogenic virus spreads by WIND – The Sun ‘Start planning for bird flu pandemic NOW’ expert warns amid fears highly pathogenic virus spreads by WIND – The Sun ‘Start planning for bird flu pandemic NOW’ expert warns amid fears highly pathogenic virus spreads by WIND The SunA looming global threat: H5N1 virus decimates wildlife, disrupts ecosystems and endangers human health Phys.orgState health experts worry bird flu could become another pandemic: report NBC BostonTests confirm H5N1 in another Idaho dairy herd, plus cats and poultry from other states University of Minnesota Twin CitiesDeadly H5N1 bird flu strain has hit all but 1 continent Axios Source link #Start #planning #bird #flu #pandemic #expert #warns #fears #highly #pathogenic #virus #spreads #WIND #Sun Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Measles Outbreak: Deceased Man In New Mexico Tested Positive, But Cause Of Death Is Unconfirmed – Forbes Measles Outbreak: Deceased Man In New Mexico Tested Positive, But Cause Of Death Is Unconfirmed – Forbes Measles Outbreak: Deceased Man In New Mexico Tested Positive, But Cause Of Death Is Unconfirmed ForbesSecond person dies in US measles outbreak BBC.comUnvaccinated New Mexico Resident Dies of Suspected Measles The New York TimesSecond death reported in measles outbreak as cases climb over 200 The Washington Post Source link #Measles #Outbreak #Deceased #Man #Mexico #Tested #Positive #Death #Unconfirmed #Forbes Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Macron hits back at Russian fury, says Kremlin feels exposed – Reuters Macron hits back at Russian fury, says Kremlin feels exposed – Reuters Macron hits back at Russian fury, says Kremlin feels exposed ReutersMacron says Russia a threat to Europe as EU leaders hold emergency summit Al Jazeera EnglishFrance to consider protecting European allies with its nuclear arsenal, Macron says CNNPoland and Baltic nations welcome Macron’s nuclear deterrent proposal The Associated Press Source link #Macron #hits #Russian #fury #Kremlin #feels #exposed #Reuters Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Australia to mull 'coalition of willing' for Ukraine Australia to mull 'coalition of willing' for Ukraine *********** Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will consider contributing to a “coalition of the willing” for Ukraine, his *** counterpart Keir Starmer says. Source link #Australia #mull #039coalition #willing039 #Ukraine Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

JonBenét Ramsey ******* suspect resurfaces| Banfield JonBenét Ramsey ******* suspect resurfaces| Banfield The former girlfriend of Chris Wolf — a man once considered a suspect in the 1996 ******* of JonBenét Ramsey — is asking police to take another look at him. John Ramsey, the father of JonBenét, joins “Banfield” to talk about the latest development. #JonBenetRamsey #Crime #Suspect Source link #JonBenét #Ramsey #******* #suspect #resurfaces #Banfield Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trump Plays Matchmaker for NASA Astronauts Stuck in Space – Yahoo Trump Plays Matchmaker for NASA Astronauts Stuck in Space – Yahoo Trump Plays Matchmaker for NASA Astronauts Stuck in Space YahooElon Musk’s offer to bring home stranded astronauts never reached the space station, say NASA astronauts who are still in orbit after 9 months YahooStranded Astronaut Butch Wilmore’s Daughter Blames “Negligence, Politics” For Long Space Stay NDTVStranded astronaut confirms Biden shot down Musk’s offer to bring pair home: ‘Absolutely factual’ New York Post We planned for the unexpected, say stranded Nasa astronauts from space station – live updates BBC.com Source link #Trump #Plays #Matchmaker #NASA #Astronauts #Stuck #Space #Yahoo Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Lachlan Hunter claims Central Wheatbelt as first electorate called Lachlan Hunter claims Central Wheatbelt as first electorate called Bruce Rock-raised Lachlan Hunter has claimed the seat of Central Wheatbelt, with the safe WA Nationals seat the first to be called for the State Election. Source link #Lachlan #Hunter #claims #Central #Wheatbelt #electorate #called Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

‘The Traitors’ Season 3 Winner Crowned On Peacock – Deadline ‘The Traitors’ Season 3 Winner Crowned On Peacock – Deadline ‘The Traitors’ Season 3 Winner Crowned On Peacock Deadline’The Traitors’ was a big loss for the bad guys: How the 5 Traitors’ strategies went awry USA TODAY’The Traitors’ Season 3 Finale: Find Out Who Won PEOPLEGabby Told Alan ******** She’d Marry Her Girlfriend If She Won The Traitors – So, Is There a Ring? NBC Insider’The Traitors’ season 3 winners revealed after early Roundtable drama Entertainment Weekly News Source link #Traitors #Season #Winner #Crowned #Peacock #Deadline Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Kalgoorlie 2025 State election result: Incumbent WA Labor MLA Kent takes strong early lead Kalgoorlie 2025 State election result: Incumbent WA Labor MLA Kent takes strong early lead WA Labor’s incumbent Kalgoorlie MLA Ali Kent has taken an strong early lead in the State election vote count on Saturday night. Source link #Kalgoorlie #State #election #result #Incumbent #Labor #MLA #Kent #takes #strong #early #lead Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

‘It’s like a whipsaw’: Donald Trump’s tariff U-turns unnerve businesses and investors – Financial Times ‘It’s like a whipsaw’: Donald Trump’s tariff U-turns unnerve businesses and investors – Financial Times ‘It’s like a whipsaw’: Donald Trump’s tariff U-turns unnerve businesses and investors Financial TimesWith Trump’s Tariff Reprieve, Mexico and Canada, Still Wary, Breathe Easier The New York TimesFact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Adjusts Tariffs on Canada and Mexico to Minimize Disruption to the Automotive Industry The White HouseTrump signs tariff exemptions for certain imports from Canada, Mexico The Hill Source link #whipsaw #Donald #Trumps #tariff #Uturns #unnerve #businesses #investors #Financial #Times Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

WA State election 2025: McGowan, Cook’s right-hand man Daniel Pastorelli closes in on win in Landsdale WA State election 2025: McGowan, Cook’s right-hand man Daniel Pastorelli closes in on win in Landsdale The Premier’s right-hand man entered his election party to a cheering crowd as he faced the likely prospect of becoming the new Labor MP for Landsdale. Daniel Pastorelli was ahead 46-33 per cent on a two-party preferred basis with Liberal newcomer Marizane Moore at 7.30pm with a 16.3 per cent swing towards the Liberals, and nearly 10 per cent of the vote counted. Daniel Pastorelli came into election day with a 25 per cent margin up his sleeve, courtesy of the retiring Labor MP. Liberal newcomer and City of Wanneroo councillor Marizane Moore came in hoping to win the seat, or more likely make a dent in its hefty margin. Mr Pastorelli, 37, has been one of the few people in the room to influence the biggest decisions impacting WA, as chief of staff to both Premiers Mark McGowan and Roger Cook. Now he is likely to win the seat in the electorate he has called home for more than 12 years. This was reflected in the raucous reaction from the crowd as he walked into his election function at Olympic Kingsway Sports Club alongside his wife and young son. His sister, nieces and parents gave him a huge embrace ahead of the count beginning. Retiring Labor MP Margaret Quirk has represented the Landsdale electorate since she won the seat of Girrawheen in 2001. The electorate, which has been a safe Labor seat since it was first contested in 1996, was substantially redrawn and rebadged to Landsdale at the last election. Ms Quirk was re-elected with a 15.8 per cent swing to Labor in the 2021 election. Mr Pastorelli reflected positively on his election campaign saying residents had welcomed Labor’s cost of living measures. “Throughout the campaign, as I doorknocked and spoke with hundreds and hundreds of local residents, people welcomed the cost of living support provided by the Cook Labor Government,” he said. “Particularly our power credits, the WA Student Assistance Payment and the cheaper public transport initiatives. “The State Government’s credibility on cost of living support, infrastructure delivery, the WA economy and our responsible budget management was something that resonated with people. “As did our local commitments for schools and community and sporting infrastructure in the area. “WA Labor’s record on free TAFE courses was also well received throughout the community.” Liberal candidate Marizane Moore was advocating for better infrastructure and health services, increased police resources, and supporting local businesses during her election campaign. Landsdale resident Tyler Le thought Mr Pastorelli had it in the bag. “You see Daniel (Pastorelli) around, but not Marizane (Moore),” he said. “I think Labor has this seat pretty comfortably. The Liberals have got to do a bit more.” What really moved the needle for Mr Le was the $500,000 Labor says it will invest into a new student services hub for Madeley Primary School — where his daughter will start school. Source link #State #election #McGowan #Cooks #righthand #man #Daniel #Pastorelli #closes #win #Landsdale Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Social Security’s 2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) Could Be Higher Than 2025’s. But Retirees Shouldn’t Want That Social Security’s 2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) Could Be Higher Than 2025’s. But Retirees Shouldn’t Want That When the Social Security Administration (SSA) announced last October that seniors would be getting a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), a lot of older Americans weren’t happy. The reality is that, historically speaking, a 2.5% Social Security COLA isn’t terrible. But in the context of more recent COLAs, it’s small. At this point, though, seniors have been living with their 2.5% COLA for a couple of months. Now, retirees are looking ahead to 2026 and hoping for better news on the COLA front. Image source: Getty Images. So far, though, the numbers aren’t looking that rosy. The nonpartisan Senior Citizens League recently put out a COLA estimate for 2026. Based on inflation readings to date, it’s calling for a 2.3% increase to Social Security benefits in the coming year. That’s clearly not great news for people who were already unhappy with a meager 2.5% raise. But that 2.3% projection is by no means set in stone. There’s a chance that 2026’s Social Security COLA could end up being far more generous. The Federal Reserve has been on a mission to cool inflation. To that end, it raised interest rates nearly a dozen times in 2022 and 2023 before eventually making a few rate cuts toward the end of 2024. But the Fed paused interest rates at its last meeting, and is likely to do the same when it meets again in mid-March. The reason is that inflation has been stubbornly sticky. That said, it’s possible that inflation will start to climb again in 2025. The implementation and enforcement of tariffs could drive the cost of consumer goods upward and also lead to key product shortages — a prime recipe for inflation. If inflation levels rise as 2026 moves along, it could set the stage for a larger 2026 Social Security COLA. But that’s also not necessarily a good thing. It’s easy to look at a larger Social Security raise as a good thing. But because COLAs are tied directly to inflation, it’s important to recognize that larger ones don’t tend to do seniors much good. Any time there’s a larger Social Security COLA, it’s on the heels of a stretch of rampant inflation. So seniors on Social Security may be better served in an environment of minimal inflation and smaller boosts to their monthly checks. We won’t know what 2026’s Social Security COLA looks like officially until October rolls around. The reason is that COLAs are specifically calculated based on third-quarter inflation readings. But it’s not a bad idea for seniors on Social Security to prepare for either a smaller COLA, or a ******* of rising inflation that could fuel a larger COLA. Story Continues Source link #Social #Securitys #CostofLiving #Adjustment #COLA #Higher #2025s #Retirees #Shouldnt Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Starship Explosions Show SpaceX No Longer Defying Gravity – The New York Times Starship Explosions Show SpaceX No Longer Defying Gravity – The New York Times Starship Explosions Show SpaceX No Longer Defying Gravity The New York TimesSpaceX’s Starship spacecraft explodes midflight for a second time, disrupting Florida air traffic CNN InternationalElon Musk’s SpaceX Starship Explodes and Grounds Flights at Florida Airports PEOPLE Source link #Starship #Explosions #Show #SpaceX #Longer #Defying #Gravity #York #Times Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

WA election 2025: Shane Love and Merome Beard battle it out to become first MP for Mid-West WA election 2025: Shane Love and Merome Beard battle it out to become first MP for Mid-West Nationals leader Shane Love was confident heading into last night’s election count of securing the new seat of Mid-West in the battle against his former protege. Source link #election #Shane #Love #Merome #Beard #battle #MidWest Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Russian strike on Ukrainian town kills 11 as US cuts intelligence sharing with Kyiv Russian strike on Ukrainian town kills 11 as US cuts intelligence sharing with Kyiv A Russian strike on a town in Ukraine’s embattled Donetsk region killed at least 11 people, officials said Saturday, as a wave of heavy aerial attacks continued into the second night following a US decision to stop sharing satellite images with Ukraine. Source link #Russian #strike #Ukrainian #town #kills #cuts #intelligence #sharing #Kyiv Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Kingsley rematch sees Jessica Stojkovski challenged by WA political family royalty Scott Edwardes Kingsley rematch sees Jessica Stojkovski challenged by WA political family royalty Scott Edwardes Labor has a slight lead in early counting in the key battleground seat of Kingsley, where the Liberal candidate is hoping to win a seat previously held by his mother for more than 15 years. The electorate covers the northern suburbs of Woodvale, Kingsley, Greenwood, Warwick, and Hamersley. As of 7.20pm, 11.52 per cent of the vote in Kingsley had been counted, with Labor’s Jessica Stojkovski leading early with 42.97 per cent of the first preference vote, ahead of Liberal Scott Edwardes with 34.94 per cent. Mr Edwardes’ mother Cheryl was a former member from 1989 to 2005. Ms Stojkovski, who has held the seat since 2017, dominated the 2021 election against Mr Edwardes, securing 60.5 per cent of the first preference vote, compared to Mr Edwardes’ 30.2 per cent. This result saw Labor’s lead increase from 1.2 per cent in the 2017 State Election to 16.9 per cent in 2021, a swing seen widely across the state and attributed to Mark McGowan and WA Labor’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. This time around, the result was always going to be tighter as the cost-of-living crunch seen around the world weighed heavily on voters’ minds. Looking back on the 2025 election, Ms Stojkovski criticised what, in her opinion, was a “divisive” political campaign by the WA Liberal Party. “Our Kingsley community is a cohesive and positive one. But unfortunately, the Liberals have decided to run a divisive and negative campaign which they should reflect on in the coming weeks, she said. “At a time when our economy is the strongest in the nation, the Liberals have demonstrated they are unfit to govern.” Camera IconJessica Stojkovski with her family yesterday at Greenwood Primary School. Credit: Supplied Ms Stojkovski said the most pressing issue raised during her campaign was the financial pressure many people are feeling, along with improvements to local schools. “The most common issue raised on the doorstep is cost of living and there is strong acknowledgement of the Cook Labor Government’s commitment to delivering real relief,” she said. “It is clear that our community is also passionate about having access to quality educational facilities and making sure our kids are set up for the jobs of the future.” Reflecting on the WA Liberals’ Kingsley campaign, officially launched in early November last year, Mr Edwardes fondly recalled the countless hours spent knocking on doors and engaging with the community. “The campaign was an opportunity to meet with community members who simply wanted someone to listen to them. Listening is the key word and not being dismissive,” he said. “The people in Woodvale, Kingsley, Greenwood, Warwick and Hamersley deserves a member of Parliament who really listens and advocates for the people and the area.” Camera IconScott Edwardes speaking to a voter at Woodvale secondary college yesterday. Credit: Supplied Mr Edwardes believes the absence of what he considers reasonable representation on local issues in the electorate is a major concern. “The key issue in the Kingsley community is the lack of effective representation and advocacy. Whether it’s congestion on Woodvale Drive, the sound wall, or high rises in Warwick, the community deserve better,” he said. As the votes for the 2025 State election continue to be counted, regardless of the outcome, Kingsley is poised to benefit from the significant promises made by both major parties throughout the campaign. Labor and the Liberals have each committed $225 million to upgrading the Reid Highway and Erindale Road intersection, a longstanding source of frustration for locals. In 2023-24 alone, congestion at the intersection is estimated to have cost the WA economy $21.3 million. Additionally, both parties committed $16 million towards the upgrade of Warwick Stadium, transforming it into the new home for the Perth Wildcats and Lynx basketball teams. The upgrade will see three new courts, new physiotherapy facilities, a new gymnasium, a wellness centre, and other modern amenities being built, making it Perth’s premier basketball facility. Source link #Kingsley #rematch #sees #Jessica #Stojkovski #challenged #political #family #royalty #Scott #Edwardes Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]